Eindhoven has begun an ambitious project to create 130 hectares of new nature and 20 kilometres of ecological corridors (ecologische verbindingszone or EVZ) by 2030. In a city that is about 9000 hectatres, this is a sizable project. The first phase of the plan is now underway, focusing on developing 85 hectares of natural space across the city, including a major transformation of the Loovelden nature reserve.
The Loovelden area, while a key part of the local stream valley, currently has low biodiversity due to high soil nutrient levels. To restore the landscape, the city is implementing several measures to make the grasslands wetter and more hospitable for native species. These include filling in old ditches, installing weirs, and creating new ponds for amphibians.
Rik Thijs, the alderperson responsible for greening, stated that these changes are essential for creating a “species-rich” environment that supports a wide range of plants and animals. The project has been bolstered by the recent acquisition of 12 hectares of land in the Loovelden and Loostraat area, a rare opportunity that will allow the city to further expand its green network.
NEWS BRAINPORT
